December 23, 2016

At last, the fall semester is finito, so it's time to get back to sewing!! And I'm very excited to share the first, new project of the winter season...something special...drum roll please...an 1830s ball gown made from a gorgeous sky blue and gold sari!

Right side: sky blue with gold embroidery.
Underside in gold (left).

A couple of months ago now, one of my Aunt's "de-stashed" and sent us several boxes full of sewing supplies and fabrics. It was just like Christmas, and, to my great delight, this satin sari all the way from India appeared. Burn test (unfortunately) confirmed that it's most likely poly, but that doesn't take away from its gorgeousness!

The embroidered motifs of the body.
In its entirety, the sari measures a little over five yards.

A band of the pallu.

I had been saving the sari for a later project, until Ariana sent me this picture from the new mini-series about my favorite monarch, Victoria:

Emily Blunt, also as Victoria, in one of my favorite period films, The Young Victoria, appears in the style: Costumes by my one of my favorite designers, Sandy Powell. It's like a frothy, lemon cake, I love it!!

December 21, 2016

In sum, December simply flew by! Between finals and three weekends of Yuletide in the Country Tours at the Genesee Country Village & Museum, there just wasn't enough time to do much else. Though, with only one, last final remaining, I am very much looking forward to getting back to the things I miss most - sewing, blogging and fun with friends!

Speaking of friends...this year's Yuletide featured anything and everything from the real life engagement of the star couple of the dance soiree, to the classic snow ball fight or two, and a truly merry (in the 19th century meaning), revamped scene with Mrs. Boyle, crowned "Lady of Misrule & Her Lusty Guts." Never a dull moment in the village!

In fact, while I was busy playing Mrs. Munger's shop assist, Hannah, charged with decorating a cake with delicate frills and candied flowers for Mrs. Butler, Ginny (our traveling doll) enjoyed the best Yuletide tour thanks to a great many friends...From her tour guide, Judy J, who made it all possible, to the Thomsons and St. Nick. Mrs. Munger, and the Fosters. Not to mention, the village fiddler and dancers...A great "thank you" to all for making our night! So, without further ado, please enjoy Ginny's Yuletide Adventure, as captured by our favorite tour guide, Judy:

Awaiting adventure on the steps of Livingston-Backus!

First stop: A little holiday shopping at the D.B. Munger Confectionery with assistance from Mrs. Munger, herself!

Second stop: A visit from Santa! The Thomsons are a proud family, who'd happily share what little they have with anyone, but wouldn't accept the same charity for themselves. Full of the holiday spirit in their hearts, a little cheer for their pockets would go a long way to brighten their Christmas Day!

(Photograph credit: Judy J.)

Third stop: Invitations to Mrs. Livingston's extravagant soiree were in short supply, though Ginny and I were personally assured a seat by the generous hostess herself (no "strong" tea or bribery of any sort required)!

Such an elegant spread, the Livingston's sure do know how to throw a grand Christmas party!

What are you doing down there, Ginny?I must have a word with your tour guide...
(Photograph credit: Judy J.)

Fourth stop: To the Town Hall, just in time for the dance!

Thanks for serenading me, Mr. Fiddler!
(Photograph credit: Judy J.)

The lady in red saved a dance just for me!
(Photograph credit: Judy J.)

When it comes to dancing, the more the merrier I say!(We loved your "photobomb," Pam!)
(Photograph credit: Judy J.)

All that twirling around sure made us thirsty...
(Photograph credit: Judy J.)

About the Sewphisticate

Needle and thread never far from hand, Anneliese is a seamstress, blogger and 19th-century living history interpreter at the Genesee Country Village & Museum. She pursues her passions for history and its clothing through costume construction and documents this journey, here, at the Young Sewphisticate.

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Why Sew by Hand?

Mission Statement

Perhaps it was the lavish gowns of period dramas, or the treasure trove of costumes at my local community theaters, or even the well-used dress up box of Grandma’s vintage, 1960s housedresses that inspired my love for historical costumes. Whatever the source, I have been captivated ever since by history and its clothing. I only hope that by sharing my passions, I will inspire others to the same appreciation for and interest in exploring clothing as a way of self-expression, social communication and a bridge to interactions of the past.

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Liebster Blog

"Anneliese sews beautiful costumes, and often blogs the whole process from concept sketch through completed ensemble." - Chelsea of a Sartorial Statement

"I get excited every time a new post from Anneliese appears in my inbox. She makes fun theatrical costumes and beautiful clothing from the mid-19th c. (and she has a knack for pattern mixing that can always make me smile!)" - Hannah of Fabric & Fiction

Sisterhood of the World Bloggers

2015 Take Back Halloween! Costume Contest - Winner of Best Queen

"This exquisite costume began life as a discarded 80s prom dress, which Anneliese transformed into queenly attire in a matter of hours the weekend before Halloween...her talent, skill, and eye for balance and detail are superb." - Suzanne Scoggins of Take Back Halloween!

Disclaimer

The pictures and text displayed here are the original creations of The Young Sewphisticate unless directly stated. If there is an image appearing on this blog that belongs to you and do not wish for it to be shared here, please let me know and said image will be removed immediately. Copying without leaving credit or obtaining permission is not appreciated. Thank you!